There’s a lot to love about living in Singapore, but it’s hard to get past the limited amount of space there is. With a little ingenuity, it is possible to make even the smallest of places a comfortable place to call home. Here are a few tips to help you get started:
1. Get the plans and measurements in detail
While it’s tempting to just go shopping for the things you love and figure out where to put them later, you have fewer options when you have limited space. Study the floor plan, get out a tape measure and know exactly what you’re working with.
Having the measurements on hand will mean you always have a reference when making purchases. In the long run, this will save you time as well as money and prevent you from making unsuitable purchases.
2. Consider outsourcing storage
Rather than try to cram all your worldly belongings into your abode, consider long-term storage options. It is an expense, but one that will pay off in terms of comfort, space management and peace of mind.
Storage space might actually cost less per square metre than real estate space. You might not be able to afford a bigger place, but you don’t need to have it feel cramped.
3. Look up, think vertically
Rather than spread out, stack storage high so as to take up less floor space. Make use of the areas over pre-existing cupboards or installed shelves. It will also look less cluttered besides being a practical solution.
4. Be judicious about acquisitions
While you do not need to live a barebones existence, be realistic about your purchases. It’s not about depriving yourself but choosing to buy only what you really love. Why buy a few trinkets that you will forget about later when you can instead buy one thing that will make you happy for a longer time?
Consider also items that can multi-task. Perhaps a rice cooker that doubles up as a steamer and pressure cooker, instead of three separate appliances.
5. Try some creativity
There’s a lot you can do with limited space, if you are creative enough. If you can’t take up floor space, consider shelves. Don’t let space be wasted: storage boxes under the bed or under coffee tables, ottomans that also double up as storage – these are just some ways to maximise storage without your home looking like a warehouse.
6. Consider dividers instead of walls
If renovation is an option, consider opting out of walls where they are unnecessary. Instead, you can opt for other creative options for room dividers – decorative storage units, perhaps or artfully arranged furniture.
7. Sometimes, simplicity works
Using lighter, instead of darker, colours will help spaces look bigger as do mirrors. Favour more open spaces – choose fewer colours, in the same colour family.
8. Let there be light
Take into account natural light when arranging furniture – a well-lit place will seem larger. Avoid blocking windows and where sheer curtains are possible, consider those instead or even blinds – which take up less space.
They say that constraints can spark creativity. So don’t let the small squarefoot count deter you from turning high-density into cosy.
If you are still renting, here’s why you should consider owning your own home.
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